2014 NFL Draft Big Board

Ladies and gentlemen, it’s NFL Draft season! And as a result, I believe it’s time we start taking a better look at the top prospects in the upcoming draft.

Please Note: This is not a mock draft. This is simply a ranking of what I believe to be the top 32 players in the 2014 NFL Draft class.

1. Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina

Clowney is a once-in-a-generation sort of talent, and with his sort of ability, he is easily the top available prospect, and he should be considered a front runner to go number one overall, so long as he proves that any questions about his effort are untrue.

2. Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M

I get it, not everyone thinks Manziel has what it takes to make it in the NFL. In my opinion however, Manziel is the best pure playmaker in the entire draft, and if any guy is going to provide a jolt of energy to a team, Manziel is that guy.

3. Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo

He might not be the most well-known prospect in the draft, however, Buffalo’s Khalil Mack is easily a top three player in this class. He has potential as a pass rusher that is perhaps even better than guys like Von Miller and Aldon Smith. He needs to improve in run stuffing, but Mack is loaded with NFL potential.

4. Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M

Perhaps the safest prospect available, Jake Matthews has done a fantastic job of protecting Manziel in college, and his game translates nicely into the NFL. He doesn’t have amazing potential, however, Matthews should improve enough to warrant a high selection in the draft.

5. Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville

Teddy Bridgewater is the safest quarterback in this draft, and a sure bet to be a solid starter in the NFL. He’ll never be elite, however, Bridgewater can help a team win.

6. Anthony Barr, OLB, UCLA

Much like Mack, Anthony Barr has outstanding potential as far as rushing the passer is concerned. Barr is still a little raw as a prospect, but with better coaching at the next level, Barr could evolve into a pass rushing monster.

7. Pierre Desir, CB, Lindenwood University

Some might say my ranking of Desir on this list is way too high. However, as far as I see it, Desir is not only the best corner available in this year’s class, but also among the top 10 prospects overall. Desir has every skill you want in a corner, and he should thrive in the NFL.

8. Derek Carr, QB, Fresno State

Brother of NFL quarterback David Carr, Derek Carr is much better than his brother ever was. He might not go no. 1, however, Carr’s arm strength, experience, and poise will make him a solid NFL quarterback.

9. Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson

Sammy Watkins is among the most dynamic weapons in the draft, and he has an oppurtunity to evolve into a true no. 1 receiver for a team. Think of Watkins like a Julio Jones type.

10. C.J. Mosley, ILB, Alabama

C.J. Mosley isn’t going to be a star in the NFL, that much is simple. He is however, going to be a solid producer in the middle. And playing a position that requires reliability, Mosley is going to make a team very happy in the pros.

Now for the remainder of the big board. These players might not get short descriptions, however, they are still among the top prospects in this year’s NFL draft.